Album Notes

BILLBOARD CRITICS TOP 10 OF 2008!
"...a beautifully produced EP of power pop tunes, and a marquee mainstream artist is born. Emphasis track "Had I Known" is a consummate power ballad, showcasing a lamenting lyric and full-bodied keyboards, strings and instrumental hooks galore—but more so, Zarley's stunning tenor range, crafty
harmonic layers and spine-tingling money notes. Reminiscent of Nick Lachey, there's more: Uptempo "Where Did You Come From," finger-snapping groove "Deep Inside" and romantic love tome "Here I Am" are as hit worthy. Tweens have plenty of idols to swoon over. Here's a crush for grown-ups, whose earthy machismo is quite the complement to his musical muscle."
-Billboard Magazine

Matt began his career at 12 years old, dancing with Tony The Tiger in a Kellogg’s "Frosted Flakes" commercial. He hasn’t looked back since.
Subsequently, his path took him to Broadway many times. He made his Broadway debut, while still a teen, in A CHORUS LINE. He’s also been featured in CATS, CHICAGO, KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, and played the title roles in both JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT and THE WHO’S TOMMY....all on the Great White Way.

In addition to several television appearances, he has worked with numerous recording artists; such as Brandy, Usher, Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight, Reba McEntire, Vanessa Williams, Peabo Bryson, Melissa Manchester, Billy Porter, and Sheena Easton, among others.

His labor of love and first solo album, DEBUT, was released thru Universal distribution in 2002 to critical acclaim. It’s lead single, “You Always Want (what u ain’t got)” was a Billboard club hit. The second single, “Say Goodbye” was featured on the all-star HRC benefit cd, “Being Out Rocks” alongside such artists as Sarah McLachlan and Rufus Wainwright, to name just a few.

Matt is also an internationally published songwriter; having several cuts recently released in Asia. The boy band, Paran, male solo artist, Tei, and Asia’s biggest sensation, BoA, are among the artists that have recorded his songs.

He has also had the distinction of being named one of Hollywood’s hottest bachelors in People Magazine’s annual Bachelor issue.

The title track from this EP, "Here I Am", was chosen as one of American Idol's Top 20 in their songwriter competition.

He currently resides in Los Angeles.